Philosophy | Faculty of Arts

Program overview

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Be bold. Follow your passion for philosophy. The sky’s the limit.

Do you think life’s great mysteries are beyond our understanding? Well, philosophy has been answering them for at least two millennia! What is the meaning of life? What is justice? Truth? Beauty? How should we see humanity and its relationship to nature, animals, technology, history, or knowledge? Our programs let you discover the great traditions and contemporary trends in both Western and Asian philosophy. You’ll explore key figures in the history of philosophy and take part in some contemporary society’s most heated debates.

Why choose this program

Philosophical Exploration: Philosophy students embark on a journey to unravel life’s mysteries and timeless questions spanning both Western and Asian traditions, from ethics to metaphysics.

Diverse Program Options: You can choose from various program options, such as the Honours BA in Philosophy, Joint Honours BA in Philosophy and Political Science, or explore minors and majors in philosophy that are tailored to your interests.

Comprehensive Curriculum: The comprehensive curriculum covers the history of philosophy, philosophical methodology, leading theories, and practical aspects of political and social realities, all of which foster systematic and analytical thinking skills.

Interdisciplinary Opportunities: These programs will allow you to expand your expertise by exploring interdisciplinary connections with programs like ethics and political philosophy, history, religious studies, or economics, preparing you for a variety of career paths in journalism, politics, law and more.

Scholarships and Bursaries: A series of generous scholarships recognizes academic achievement and provides financial assistance based on need to ensure you have access to quality education and support throughout your academic journey.

Program structure

Get a glimpse into how uOttawa’s Philosophy program is structured and the courses you’ll have the opportunity to take.

Understand program path and options

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This program offers a thorough education in philosophy focused on three profiles: History of Philosophy, Ethics and Political philosophy, Metaphysics and Epistemology. We prepare you to face a tough, changing labour market as well as for graduate studies in philosophy or other fields, including law.

Program Structure

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After your studies

After completing your undergraduate studies in Philosophy, you have two main paths to consider: continuing your education or entering the workforce.

Many students pursue graduate studies, such as a Master’s degree, to deepen their knowledge, develop advanced research and analytical skills, and explore specialized areas of interest. A thesis-based MA is particularly well suited for those considering a PhD or a career in academia, while also providing valuable preparation for careers in fields such as cognitive science, publishing, public service, and research.

Graduates who enter the workforce directly find that the critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills developed through philosophy are highly valued across many sectors, including administration, politics, lobbying, policy development, cultural and environmental organizations, education, data management, computer science, and law.

Whatever path you choose, a Philosophy degree provides a versatile and strong foundation for a meaningful and rewarding career.

Potential Career Paths

Tuition and fees

Learn about the costs associated with your program and explore the scholarships and funding options available to help support you along the way.

Tuition fees

Scholarships and bursaries

Student experience

Undergraduate Philosophy Student Association (UPSA)

The Undergraduate Philosophy Student Association (UPSA) represents undergraduate students enrolled in the Philosophy and in the Ethics programs at the University of Ottawa, and is a federated body within the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa (SFUO).

Graduate Students and De Philosophia Graduate Conference

The Graduate Philosophy Student Association represents Graduate Students and holds conferences and events for the Department of Philosophy where students can engage with other scholars on a handful of topics and inquiries.